Computers and Wifi

The library has six public access computers to be used free of charge for internet access or word processing activities. A printer is available also, at the cost of 10 cents per page.

All users of the library's public computers are expected to have read the posted Intenet Use Policy and Wireless Policy and to abide by them, or their computer privileges might be rescinded.

Baldwin Public LibraryWireless Access to the Internet Policy Free, unfiltered wireless Internet access is available at the Library. Customers are cautioned that security for personal data and wireless devices rests solely with the owner of the wireless connection device, not the library.

The Library assumes no responsibility for the safety of customers' equipment or for any damage that might occur to customers' computer configurations or data files resulting from connection to the Library's wireless access.

Library staff can only offer basic assistance in getting started with the wireless network; staff members are not trained to assist with troubleshooting problems with customers' personal devices.

Library power outlets may not always be available. The Library does not guarantee that customers will be always able to make a wireless connection.

Customers wishing to print material from the Internet are directed to use the Library's public workstations. Users of the Wireless connection will still be expected to adhere to the Internet/Computer Use Policy and Agreement of the library, which applies to use of the Internet regardless of means of access. This is posted at the front desk and near the computer station.

Violation of the policies and regulations that govern the use of the Library's Internet resources may result in suspension or loss of the privilege to use these resources. Any illegal activity involving the Library's Internet resources will be subject to prosecution by the appropriate authorities. December 9, 2008

Internet/Computer Use Policy and Agreement

The Baldwin Public Library provides public access to the Internet to expand our information services beyond the library collection. The Internet is a valuable tool for learning and offers adults and children experiences that are both educational and rewarding. However, the Internet has also raised concerns. It can present unsafe situations. It is important that parents guide and supervise their child’s use of the Internet just as they guide and supervise their children’s reading and television viewing. Monitoring your child’s use of the Internet is not the busy library staff’s responsibility. Access to the Internet is available to all patrons; however, this service may be restricted at any time for use not consistent with the guidelines. Parents of minor children must assume responsibility for their children’s use of the library’s Internet service prior to being granted access to the Internet by filling out the enclosed form to be kept on file at the library. Users should be aware that the inappropriate use of electronic information resources can be a violation of local, state, and federal laws and can lead to prosecution. The user will be held responsible for his/her actions using the Internet. Users are expected to abide by the policies below, which include generally accepted rules of network etiquette. Unacceptable uses of the service will result in the suspension or revocation of Internet use privileges. The library cannot assure that date or files downloaded by users are virus-free. The library is not responsible for damages to equipment or data on a user’s service.

EXPECTATIONS

1. Children in 4th grade and below must be accompanied by a parent or guardian while using the computer for Internet access.

2. Students in 5th grade –up to age 17, along with a parent or guardian, must sign the Internet Use Agreement.

3. All users must fill out a timesheet prior to beginning their session and post it prominently at their computer stations so that the library staff can check on time expired if there are waiting patrons. Internet use is offered in thirty (30) minute sessions on a first-come, first-served basis. Each user is allowed one session – if there is no patron waiting for the service at the end of a session, the user may have another 30 minute session, but once having had the service for 30 minutes, the user must abandon use of the Internet if another patron requests use of the service.

4. Chat Groups/Rooms are not to be accessed or entered.

5. Users may use the Internet for the receipt and transmission of electronic mail (e-mail) as long as they use a free e-mail service such as Hotmail.com which will establish and maintain an account for them.

6. Users will respect and uphold all applicable laws including copyright laws, and will not use the Internet for illegal purposes.

7. Users will respect the rights and privacy of others by not accessing private files or using accounts owned by other users without their permission.

8. Users shall not incur any costs for the library through their use of the Internet service.

9. Users shall not create and deposit or distribute computer viruses or any other malicious programs onto the library’s computers or over the Internet.

10. Users shall not deliberately or willfully cause damage to computer equipment, programs, or parameters, or change in any way the computer system, settings, desktop, or equipment.

11. Users shall not waste technology resources designed for educational purposes, including hard drive, file space, and printers, by playing unauthorized, non-educational games.

12. Users may print from the computer for $0.10 per copy. Printing of non-educational materials is discouraged.

13. Users shall not use the computer for personal financial or commercial gain.

14. Users shall not use the computer to gain access to unauthorized resources or entities (hacking). We reserve the right to restrict visual images. If a user is viewing images determined to be objectionable by a library staff member, the user will be asked to exit from that site. If the user is found viewing objectionable materials a second time, their Internet session will be terminated.

Internet User Agreement and Parent/Guardian Form

As a user of the Baldwin Public Library’s computer, I have read and agree to comply with the established rules and policies – communicating over the network in a reliable fashion while honoring all relevant laws and restrictions. Student Signature____________________________________________ Date___________________ As a parent or legal guardian of the minor student signing above, I grant permission for my son or daughter to access networked computer services such as electronic mail and the Internet. I understand that individuals and families may be held liable for violations. I understand that some materials on the Internet may be objectionable, but I accept responsibility for guidance of Internet use – setting and conveying standards for my child to follow when selecting, sharing, or exploring information and media. Parent Signature____________________________________________ Date___________________ Name of Student____________________________________________ Age____________________ Home Address______________________________________________________________________ Home Telephone____________________________________________________________________ 2007 Revisions